Televangelist criticised for shutting megachurch's doors during Hurricane Harvey
A popular pastor has come under huge criticism for closing the doors of his mega-church during a deadly storm.
Pastor Joel Osteen canceled services at his Lakewood Church and locked the doors.
The church is an arena that seats over 16 000 people.
It was not flooded by Harvey and according to photos on social media, remained accessible during the storm.
Some have attacked the evangelical for instead of offering to open the church's doors, offering only prayers on social media.
Victoria & I are praying for everyone affected by Hurricane Harvey. Please join us as we pray for the safety of our Texas friends & family.
— Joel Osteen (@JoelOsteen) August 26, 2017
Five people were killed during the devastation.
READ ALSO: Viral images show devastation after Hurricane Harvey
In a statement on the church's website, he announces the decision to cancel services and close the place of worship.
Social media users were quick to criticise Osteen's decision to not open the church to victims of Harvey.
Front of @JoelOsteen's huge Lakewood Church in Houston at 11 am. Closed due to "flooding". Person who took it asked to be anonymous. pic.twitter.com/gOndOncFuC
— Charles Clymer????? (@cmclymer) August 28, 2017
The popular evangelical preacher, @JoelOsteen, opened the doors of his Houston megachurch to flood victims.
— The Hoarse Whisperer (@HoarseWisperer) August 28, 2017
Just kidding. No, he didn't. pic.twitter.com/WS2zDDXnbI
.@JoelOsteen has a big church in Houston
— ALT?? Immigration (@ALT_uscis) August 28, 2017
Not flooded
It is closed
Because this time they cant pass a bucket around
He Prayed for u online pic.twitter.com/k5x36wtdLL
When the beautiful people of Houston ask Joel Osteen for the same donations they've been giving his church pic.twitter.com/hrWun5DV56
— Trizz (@Tr1zz) August 28, 2017